Tevita Rakula

My name is Tevita Mikaele Rakula and I am a 25-year-old environmental health professional from the beautiful islands of Fiji. My journey has taken me from the classrooms of the Fiji National University to the skies with Fiji Airways, with every step contributing to my personal and professional growth. My unique blend of expertise in environmental health, occupational safety, and aviation risk management makes me a versatile professional capable of handling diverse responsibilities and challenges.

I studied Environmental Health at Fiji National University, a field that aligns with my love for our planet and my concern for maintaining its health. After I graduated in 2021, I began working as a WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Officer. This role allowed me to implement key environmental health principles and work closely with rural communities and schools, a rewarding experience that deepened my commitment to my field.

Later in 2021, my role evolved into a dual position as a WASH Officer/Technical Officer for Eye and Ears Screening at Project HEAVEN Trust. This opportunity expanded my skills, and I found great satisfaction in making a difference in people's lives, especially in the areas of vision and hearing health.

My career took to the skies in 2022 when I accepted a position as a Customer Wellness Champion at Fiji Airways. This role was a unique fusion of my environmental health background and my newly acquired skills in aviation risk management, which I studied at SouthPac Aerospace. As a first responder to any medical emergencies on international flights, I also utilized the skills I gained from the Inflight Medical Emergency First Aid Train the Trainer course and the Complaint Resolution Official Train the Trainer course, both completed through MedAire.

My time at Fiji Airways further sparked my interest in occupational health and safety (OHS). This led me to pursue a Diploma in OHS while simultaneously serving as the Workplace Safety Coordinator for Fiji Airways since December 2022. In this role, I apply my diverse knowledge and skills to ensure safety and wellness on a large scale.

Besides environmental health and aviation safety, I have a strong passion for education and youth empowerment. This passion has led me to complete a Train the Trainer course at Fiji National University. This qualification allows me to conduct workshops and training sessions, equipping me with the essential tools to inspire and guide the youth in their journey towards achieving their goals.

In addition to my formal education and work experience, I have taken part in numerous courses and conferences, both virtual and face-to-face. These experiences have expanded my understanding of climate change, safety, health, leadership, management, and administration. I also had the privilege of representing my university at the Commonwealth Summer School in 2021, a valuable experience that broadened my international exposure and perspective.

I believe in being a life-long learner and always strive for personal and professional development. I am goal-oriented and relish new challenges, as they provide opportunities for growth. My journey so far has been filled with diverse experiences, each one contributing to my development and shaping me into a well-rounded professional.

My aim is to continue empowering youths, promoting wellness, and contributing to a healthier, safer environment. I am excited about the future and look forward to the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in my journey of personal and professional growth.